Siskiyou County picks Nacht & Lewis for new jail project

The Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors is moving along with its plans to build a new jail, and Tuesday the board chose the architectural firm it will pursue to take the next step in the process.

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By David Smith@SDNDavidSmith

Siskiyou Daily News, Yreka, CA

By David Smith@SDNDavidSmith

Posted Mar. 20, 2014 at 8:39 AM

By David Smith@SDNDavidSmith

Posted Mar. 20, 2014 at 8:39 AM

The Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors is moving along with its plans to build a new jail, and Tuesday the board chose the architectural firm it will pursue to take the next step in the process.

The firms Nacht & Lewis and NM&R presented their proposals at the board’s March 11 meeting, laying out their visions for the $25 million state-funded project.

Supervisors Michael Kobseff, Brandon Criss and Grace Bennett expressed support for Nacht & Lewis, stating that they believed the firm displayed a better understanding of the county’s fiscal constraints for the project.

The fiscal constraints have played a large role in the board’s recent discussions, due to the county’s inability to make up the difference if construction costs exceed the money provided by the state.

County Administrative Officer Tom Odom suggested that the board direct staff to first pursue a feasibility study to determine whether a jail that fits the county’s needs will come in under budget.

At past meetings, the board has also questioned its ability to staff the jail, which estimates show could cost up to $3.5 million per year.

The design concept from Nacht & Lewis showed a housing area with a central control providing a view of all exits and entrances, which company representatives suggested could help reduce staffing needs while retaining full security.

Eric Fadness, Nacht & Lewis vice president, said Wednesday, “I am so pleased that the members of the board of supervisors selected our firm unanimously. They really responded to our budget concerns as well as our strategy for delivering the project. We’re looking forward to working with Siskiyou County and the sheriff’s office.”

Taken to a vote, the board directed staff to pursue a contract with Nacht & Lewis to determine the feasibility of the project.

Odom suggested at the board’s February 11 meeting that the feasibility study alone could cost up to $100,000, but a final number for the contract will not be known until it is brought to the board for approval.